On March 2, 2024, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of MoPSW and AYUSH, virtually opened a Mobile Medical Unit (MMU) and the first-ever Made-in-India ASTDS Tug, "Ocean Grace." Constructed by Cochin Shipyard Limited under the auspices of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW), the 'Ocean Grace' represents India's dedication to Atmanirbhar Bharat.
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Advances in Maritime
The 'Ocean Grace,' with her 60-ton bollard pull, is the ultimate example of maritime engineering. It was built for Rs. 45 crore, has state-of-the-art technology, and demonstrates the government's commitment to superior marine infrastructure. Shri Sonowal emphasised the development and expansion of Paradip Port under PM Modi's inspiring direction.
Green Tug Transition Initiative
By 2030, 50% of tugs will be green tugs thanks to the Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP). 'Ocean Grace' is a major step in that direction. By 2027, two battery-electric green tugs will be supplied to major ports by Cochin Shipyard as part of the GTTP.
Amrit Kaal Maritime Vision 2047
The goal of the Decarbonisation Cell is to lead the way in advanced technology vessels in line with the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047. The introduction of hybrid electric Ro-Ro ferries, electric water taxis, and hybrid LNG cargo carriers are some of the initiatives. In keeping with the vision, green hydrogen- and ammonia-powered tugs will be stationed at significant ports to demonstrate a dedication to environmentally friendly maritime operations.
Sagarmala Programme in Odisha
Large-scale coastal infrastructure development has been fueled by Odisha's Sagarmala Programme. With 53 projects valued at Rs. 54,500 crores, the programme focuses on enhancing fisheries, skill development, tourism, and urban water transportation. Ongoing projects include transforming Paradip fishing harbour and upskilling candidates through the Skill Development Programme.
Social Responsibility of Companies (SSR)
With projects in the areas of education, the environment, healthcare, sanitation, electricity, sports, and culture, Paradip Port makes a major contribution to CSR efforts. The Medical Mobile Unit (MMU), which has an operating budget of Rs. 48 LPA, was inaugurated to demonstrate the port's dedication to providing affordable healthcare to impoverished communities.
Plans for Growth
The goal of Paradip Port's expansion is to increase capacity to over 300 MTPA in the next two years. This includes the Rs. 3,004.63 crore Western Dock project. The project involves creating a new dock with state-of-the-art infrastructure, deepening the inner harbour, and optimising facilities in public-private partnership (PPP) mode.
Productivity Milestone
Paradip Port achieved a significant milestone by leading major ports in productivity, achieving 32,500 metric tonnes per ship berth day in the fiscal year 2022-2023.
The inauguration of 'Ocean Grace' and the MMU marks Paradip Port's continuous commitment to progress, growth, and sustainable maritime practices in alignment with Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.
This evening, Hon'ble Union Minister of @shipmin_india Shri @sarbanandsonwal ji will virtually inaugurate the New Tug Boat under #AatmanirbharBharat and Medical Mobile Unit of @paradipport
Do join live 7.30 pm onwards👇
📹 https://t.co/EFXeqpMhQk— Paradip Port Authority (@paradipport) March 2, 2024
media sources: X, PIB
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